comics and your children george h pumphrey comics campaign council uk #nn

George H. Pumphrey's 1954 publication is a critical essay examining the impact of American comic books on British children, particularly those imported from the United States. The work documents how these comics entered Britain through various channels—including bulk purchases of unsold American copies before 1939, supplies to American servicemen during World War II, and subsequent imports from Australia and Eire—and analyzes their harmful content. Pumphrey argues that American-type comics glorify violence, sadism, and degradation while promoting unhealthy attitudes toward sex and foreigners, and he cites American research, including Dr. Wertham's work at the Lafargue Clinic in New York, showing a definite connection between comic book reading and juvenile delinquency in children. The pamphlet contends that such comics pose a serious threat to adolescents' moral development and standards, potentially leaving lasting psychological damage.